1957 AJS 498cc Model 18S Frame no. A53814 Engine no. 57/18 S 130695

1957 AJS 498cc Model 18S Registration no. FBG 391 Frame no. A53814 Engine no. 57/18 S 130695 Associated Motor Cycles announced its post-war range of AJS and Matchless 'heavyweight' singles in June 1945. Coded Model 18 and G80 respectively, the two 500cc models shared the same 93mm stroke as their 350cc brethren, coupled to an 82.5mm bore. Housed in a rigid frame with Teledraulic front fork, the ruggedly built overhead-valve engine drove via a four-speed gearbox. Hairpin valve springs were adopted for 1949 and a swinging-arm frame introduced, the latter initially for export only but available in the UK from 1950, models so-equipped being suffixed 'S'. Carrying a Joe Francis Motors Ltd supplying dealer decal to the mudguard, this AJS Model 18S was last used on a 130-mile Oxford VMCC run on 2nd March 2023 and was last started on 7th March 2023. The machine is only being sold on account of the vendor's old age and health issues, and the fact that he is reducing the size of his collection. The accompanying history file contains a current V5C Registration Certificate; maintenance manual and instruction book; spares list book; photocopied marque-related literature; and various invoices/bills. The vendor advises us that the machine is ready to ride. Key not required Footnotes: All lots are sold 'as is/where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com